Ready? OK? The world of competitive cheerleading and high school rivalries takes a comedic look at itself in Bring It On: The Musical, the best contemporary American play on Denver’s stage since In the Heights.
The fresh, young cast that includes 11 real competitive cheerleaders tips the energy scale with over-the-top performances. You’ll laugh at their words (“Shut the front door and slap my ass with the screen!”), tap your toe to their singing (“How do we know who we are unless we cross the line?”) and gasp at their choreography with high-flying somersaults, splits and spins. Its all about their era—there’s no question who owns it.
The ensemble is led by 20-year-old University of Michigan student Taylor Louderman as Campbell and Adrienne Warren, a bright new star who originated the role of Danielle in the premiere in Atlanta. What the cast may lack in solo voice range, they make up in enthusiasm and dance moves.
When avid cheerleader captain Campbell (“I was lost in the desert before cheering”) is “re-districted” to a rival school, she forms a cheerleading squad with the ethnically diverse “crew” members. All doesn’t go as planned, but Campbell and her new pals learn valuable lessons in friendships, peer acceptance and what and who is important in life.
Keep your eye on Ryann Redmond as Bridget, the girl who "doesn’t fit in." In her first touring role, she nearly steals the show as the group’s comedienne.
Bring It On: The Musical is a collaboration of some of the brightest creative people in the business: libretto by Tony® Award-winner Jeff Whitty (Avenue Q), music and lyrics by Tony® Award-winning composer Lin-Manuel Miranda (In the Heights), music by Pulitzer and Tony® Award-winning composer Tom Kitt (Next to Normal), lyrics by Broadway lyricist Amanda Green (High Fidelity) and music supervision by Tony® and Grammy® Award-winner Alex Lacamoire (In The Heights). The production is directed and choreographed by Tony® Award-winner Andy Blankenbuehler (In the Heights).
The show plays the Buell Theatre through Jan. 21, 2012. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday and Monday, Jan. 16; at 2 p.m. Saturday and Sunday; and 11 a.m. Wednesday, Jan. 18. For tickets, visit www.denvercenter.org or call 303-893-4100.
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